28 Jan 2019 | 10:17 PM UTC
India: Jammu-Srinagar National Highway reopens after six-day closure Jan. 27
Jammu-Srinagar National Highway partially reopens for traffic for light vehicles on January 27 following protests by stranded travelers in Jammu and Udhampur
Event
On Sunday, January 27, local authorities partially reopened the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway - closed since January 21 - for Srinagar-bound light vehicle traffic. Stranded motorists held demonstrations in Jammu and Udhampur during the weather-related closure, denouncing the authorities' perceived failure to provide adequate conditions for those affected. Similar demonstrations are to be expected if poor weather conditions prompt further road closures in the area over the coming weeks.
Context
The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway was closed on January 21 due to heavy rainfall and snowfall, which caused landslides. Inclement weather delayed the reopening of the road, leaving hundreds of trucks stranded.
Advice
Individuals present in Kashmir are advised to exercise caution while driving, monitor developments to the situation, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments. As a reminder, some Western governments advise their citizens against travel to parts of Kashmir, notably including areas along the Line of Control (LoC), due to the significant risk of violence.
